Driver Experience

Would you like to operate one of the world’s largest stationary steam engines that from 1928 to 1980 pumped 19 million gallons of water daily to supply London? Why not become a Guest Driver at Kempton and do just that.

Your day begins early with a tour of the engine house and an introduction to the team of volunteers. You will then get involved with all the different tasks needed to get the Sir William Prescott triple expansion steam engine working, before getting your hands on the operating controls. You will be shown how to start the engine with the barring engines, how to control its running and how to bring it to a stop.

At the end of the day you will receive a signed certificate to prove that you have completed a day’s driver training on the engine.

The Guest Driver Experience costs £110 for one person. Participants must be at least 16 years of age and over 1.4m (4’7″) in height. Museum entry is included in this price along with a set of booklets detailing the history and technical specifications of the engine. The only thing you need is a pair of overalls!

There are opportunities for four Guest Drivers every steaming weekend (two each day). To book your place please click on the ‘Driver Experience Booking’ button below.

Please note that only the person booking the experience is allowed to participate. Any accompanying friends or relatives must purchase their own entry tickets to the museum and are not permitted to take part in the experience.

If you have any questions about the driver experience just email us at: ‘museum@kemptonsteam.org’.​